Local President's Page

March 2017 Update

Implementation of the 2016 National Agreement is progressing, MHA conversions are occurring with regularity, and Postal reform legislation is pending before Congress. This is shaping up to be a busy year and we continue moving forward. In addition, the Local Executive Board has approved a metro area Member’s event; specifically, a picnic which will be held in June.

The implementation of the 2016 National Agreement continues. This process has progressed well so far; however, some questions remain concerning certain provisions. I will be attending a training session on the 2016 National Agreement at the upcoming SAMLU in April. Hopefully I’ll be able to get clarification on some open questions.

The back pay portion of wage increases will be included in the paychecks of PP-10-2017 on May 19, 2017.

Facilities in both States are currently seeing a steady progression in the conversion of MHAs to career full-time regulars. As always, we’re going to do everything we can to keep this moving along. It should also be noted that under the terms of the 2016 National Agreement an MHA who has completed 1 – 360 day term immediately preceding conversion is not required to serve an additional probationary period.

With Postal reform looming on the Congressional horizon, Local 323 is preparing to participate in the 2017 NPMHU Legislative Conference. Recording Secretary Dean Abatte will be representing the State of Minnesota and ND State Executive Board Member Brock Engstrom will be representing the state of North Dakota. Together our Representatives will ensure that the voice of our Membership is heard on Capitol Hill.

Finally, a metro area picnic will be held for the Membership on June 25, 2017. This event will run from 10:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. at Como Park in St. Paul. Vice President Kathy Schultz is serving as the Chairperson and further information will be forwarded to each Branch in the near future.